Heidi’s Story…
This is Heidi she was a loving, kind, caring mother, wife, sister and daughter who we lost on the 5th of September 2017 as a result of anorexia and depression.
Heidi’s was once a proud member of the British Royal Navy, she travelled the world and did a job which she loved, but sadly around her mid 20’s she developed anorexia. The illness caused her to lose so much weight that her life was at great risk and sadly this meant she could no longer continue with her career. Thankfully, due to the love and support of her family, and the amazing care she received from the forces medical service, Heidi managed to recover to a healthy weight which she had managed to maintain for the last 12 years. She was even lucky enough to meet a wonderful husband and against all the odds they have had 3 beautiful children together.
Unfortunately, Heidi’s battle with anorexia and depression began again last year and sadly she chose to keep secret just what she was going through. It was not until her son’s sixth birthday that all her family could see how withdrawn and under-weight she had become again. Her mum spoke with her and convinced her to arrange a GP appointment, but before Heidi managed to see her doctor the retched illness took hold of her and her depression lead her to take an overdose. Though she was saved from this attempt, Heidi’s anorexia had taken over her, and despite the efforts of her family and doctors, on a sunny Saturday afternoon in September 2017, whilst her children sat playing at home unbeknownst to them she passed away in hospital with her helpless broken-hearted family surrounding her.
Heidi’s family can’t bring her back or explain to her children why mummy’s gone but what they can do is help and support a charity such as Mind who are fighting every day to help prevent another person suffering the way Heidi did.
About Nottinghamshire Mind…
We believe no one should have to face a mental health problem alone, so we’re here for you whether you’re stressed, depressed, in crisis or just want someone to talk to. We’ll listen, give you support and advice and fight your corner.
Hardly anyone expects to go through life without experiencing physical problems, from colds to serious illnesses, and in the same way almost everyone faces challenges to their mental well being. These can range from short periods of stress caused by life events to longer lasting conditions.
For 1 in 4 people these challenges can prevent them from living their lives to the full. Nottinghamshire Mind works to promote and enhance mental well being and support it’s service users across Nottinghamshire.
Support and Services
Peer Support
Peer support means walking the same road together, helping each other out along the way. Here at Central Notts Mind our Peer Support Services offer for you to be supported by others who really do understand. Someone who is equal to you and has similar but not necessarily the same experiences.
What does the support offer?
Our peer support offers a variety of activities that aim to bring people together. These include
- Women’s Group
- Men’s Group
- Social Group
- Evening Social Group
Counselling
At Central Notts Mind we aim to provide you with a counselling experience that will support you to understand your psychological and emotional well being and to find ways of coping.
For more information about our support services visit www.nottinghamshiremind.org.uk/